Kos Guide: Short Picks & Local Tips

Quick picks and short excerpts that point you to our main guides. Explore restaurants, bars and experiences—then continue on the canonical pages.

Discover Kos: History & Culture

  • Birthplace of Hippocrates: Kos is the legendary birthplace of Hippocrates, the "Father of Medicine." You can visit the ancient Plane Tree of Hippocrates in Kos Town, where he is said to have taught his students.
  • Ancient Ruins: The island is home to the Asklepion, one of the most important healing temples of the ancient world, as well as Roman villas, mosaics, and a medieval castle.
  • Multicultural Heritage: Kos has been influenced by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Italians, creating a unique blend of architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
  • Stunning Beaches: Kos boasts over 100 km of coastline, with famous beaches like Paradise Beach, Mastichari, and Tigaki offering crystal-clear waters and golden sand.
  • Vibrant Local Life: From lively markets and summer festivals to traditional villages like Zia and Pyli, Kos offers a rich cultural experience for every visitor.
  • Delicious Cuisine: The island is famous for its fresh seafood, local honey, olive oil, and wines—don't miss the chance to try authentic Greek dishes at a local taverna!
  • Learn More: For official travel information, events, and more historical details, check out the official Visit Greece page for Kos.

Latest Guides & Itineraries

3 Days in Kos: A Smart First-Timer Itinerary

Itinerary · 6–8 min read

Day 1 anchors you in Kos Town: old harbor walk, Asklepion at golden hour, and dinner near the waterfront. Day 2 is for beaches—head west for calmer water and lunch by the sand, then cocktails back in town. Day 3 climbs into the hills: Zia for sunset views and a village meander. Book ahead for dinner and plan transport for the mountain leg. For places to eat and sip along this route, explore our restaurants, bars and experiences.

Best Beaches in Kos by Vibe

List · 5–7 min read

For quiet mornings, try the north coast sands beyond Tigaki. For families, look for long, shallow shelves and organized sunbeds near Mastichari. If you want sunset drinks with music, go south-west; if you prefer wind and waves, chase the Aegean on the north side. Pair your beach day with a late lunch from our handpicked restaurants and wind down at one of the rooftop or beachfront bars.

Kos Town Food Crawl: A One-Day Taste Map

Food guide · 5–6 min read

Start with coffee and a sweet bite near the harbor, then move into backstreets for meze at lunch—grilled seafood, simple salads, and a glass of white. Late afternoon: gelato or a spoon sweet. Finish with a casual dinner under the plane trees or a modern Greek spot. Browse our Kos restaurants and save a few picks to map your route.

Family-Friendly Things To Do in Kos

Ideas · 4–6 min read

Combine shallow-beach mornings with short cultural stops (Asklepion is great before noon), then add a farm, winery lawn, or horseback session for the afternoon. Keep dinners early and relaxed. See our curated experiences and accommodations to plan low-stress days.

Sunset Spots & Rooftop Bars in Kos

Drinks · 3–5 min read

For west-facing views, head uphill for mountain lookouts; in town, count on rooftops and waterfront edges. Aim to arrive 30–40 minutes before sunset to catch the soft palette. Browse our handpicked bars and save a couple of backups—seats fill fast on clear evenings.

Wine & Farm Experiences on Kos

Local makers · 4–6 min read

Between vineyard slopes and family farms, tastings here are relaxed and hands-on. Book ahead, designate a driver, and pair tastings with simple mezze. See our Kos experiences for wineries, honey farms, and olive oil producers that welcome visitors.

Off‑Season Kos: October to April

Seasonal · 4–6 min read

Expect cooler evenings, quieter beaches, and shorter opening hours. Focus on nature walks, cultural visits, and long lunches in town. Check hours in advance and favor centrally located stays—browse our accommodations and restaurants open year‑round.

48 Hours in Kos: A Weekend Playbook

Itinerary · 4–5 min read

Day 1: town highlights, meze lunch, and a sunset bar. Day 2: beach morning, a farm tasting, and dinner in the hills. Keep logistics light: choose a base near what you’ll do. Our experiences and food picks make planning quick.

Lampros (Restaurant)

Lampros is a beloved Greek taverna in the heart of Kos Town, famous for its fresh seafood, expertly grilled meats, and classic Greek appetizers. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Explore restaurants →

Giameze (Restaurant)

Giameze is a family-run taverna that has been serving authentic Greek cuisine in Kos Town since 1985. The restaurant is beloved for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and its dedication to traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Explore restaurants →

Hasapaki (Restaurant)

Hasapaki is Kos's premier meat house, specializing in premium grilled meats and traditional Greek barbecue. Known for exceptional quality beef, lamb, and pork, all grilled to perfection with Greek herbs and seasonings.

Explore restaurants →

Petra (Restaurant)

Petra is a family-owned restaurant offering traditional Greek cuisine with a focus on local specialties. The establishment prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create authentic dishes that represent the true flavors of Kos Island.

Explore restaurants →

Olympia Platnos (Restaurant)

A local favorite for traditional Greek dishes and a welcoming atmosphere, Olympia Platnos is known for its hearty portions and friendly service.

Explore restaurants →

Ali (Restaurant)

Ali Restaurant specializes in traditional Greek mezze and authentic taverna cuisine. Located in the heart of Kos, Ali offers an extensive selection of small plates perfect for sharing, allowing visitors to experience the full range of Greek flavors in one meal.

Explore restaurants →

Paron (Restaurant)

Paron is a charming spot known for its classic Greek recipes and friendly service. The menu features a mix of traditional favorites and seasonal specialties, all made with fresh, local ingredients.

Explore restaurants →

Mommys Cooking (Restaurant)

Mommys Cooking brings authentic home-style Greek cooking to Kos. This beloved restaurant serves traditional recipes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for experiencing genuine Greek hospitality and flavors that locals have enjoyed for generations.

Explore restaurants →

Almyra (Restaurant)

Almyra is a beachfront restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine and relaxed island vibes. Known for its fresh seafood, grilled dishes, and stunning sea views, Almyra is a favorite for both locals and tourists.

Explore restaurants →

Skouro (Restaurant)

Skouro is a hidden gem for Greek comfort food and local wines. The menu features hearty stews, grilled meats, and a selection of regional wines.

Explore restaurants →

CFood and Mood (Restaurant)

CFood and Mood brings contemporary dining to Kos with creative interpretations of Mediterranean cuisine. This modern restaurant offers innovative dishes while maintaining connections to traditional Greek flavors and ingredients.

Explore restaurants →

Akrogialli Roots (Restaurant)

Akrogialli Roots is a seaside restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and daily catches from local fishermen. Enjoy authentic Greek seaside dining with panoramic ocean views.

Explore restaurants →

Oromedon (Restaurant)

Oromedon in the mountain village of Zia offers breathtaking sunset views combined with exceptional Greek cuisine. This elevated dining experience provides panoramic views of the Aegean Sea while serving traditional dishes with a gourmet twist.

Explore restaurants →

Rooster (Restaurant)

Rooster offers gourmet grilled meats with a modern twist on traditional Greek recipes. This popular grill house combines high-quality ingredients with expert preparation, creating memorable dining experiences for both locals and visitors.

Explore restaurants →

Brusko (Restaurant)

Brusko specializes in traditional Greek grilled dishes with a focus on local meat preparations. Known for its authentic atmosphere and excellent grilled specialties that showcase the best of Greek meat cuisine.

Explore restaurants →

Vuro (Restaurant)

Vuro is a trendy spot in Kos Town, known for its creative Greek cuisine and stylish atmosphere. The menu features modern takes on classic dishes, making it a favorite for foodies and those seeking something new.

Explore restaurants →

Olympia Roof Garden (Restaurant)

Olympia Roof Garden offers elegant rooftop dining in Kos Town with stunning views and sophisticated Greek cuisine. It's a top choice for romantic dinners and special occasions.

Explore restaurants →

Broadway (Restaurant)

Broadway is a popular restaurant in Kos Town, known for its international menu and vibrant setting. The menu features a mix of Greek and global dishes, making it a hit with both locals and tourists.

Explore restaurants →

King Size (Beach Bar)

King Size is a beach bar with a fun atmosphere, cocktails, and music on the sand. It's a favorite for sunbathers and party-goers alike.

Explore bars →

Milos (Beach Bar)

Milos is an iconic beach bar and restaurant, perfect for sunset drinks and parties. The menu features Mediterranean flavors and creative cocktails.

Explore bars →

Nissi Beach (Beach Bar)

Nissi Beach is a relaxed beach bar and restaurant with Mediterranean flavors. It's a great spot for families and couples looking for a laid-back day by the sea.

Explore bars →

Namaste (Beach Bar)

Namaste is a chill beach bar with a bohemian vibe and creative cocktails. It's a favorite for those seeking a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.

Explore bars →

Global (Bar)

Global is a trendy bar for international drinks and lively nights out. The menu features creative cocktails and a wide selection of spirits.

Explore bars →

Boheme (Bar)

Boheme is a stylish cocktail bar with a creative drinks menu and live music. It's a favorite for couples and groups looking for a chic night out.

Explore bars →

Umbra (Bar)

Umbra is a modern bar and lounge with signature cocktails and a chic setting. It's a great place to start or end your night in Kos Town.

Explore bars →

Island Life (Beach Bar)

Island Life is a beach bar capturing the spirit of Kos with music and great drinks. It's a favorite for those who want to soak up the sun and enjoy the island vibe.

Explore bars →

The Old Watermile from Zia (Restaurant)

The Old Watermile in Zia village offers a unique dining experience in a restored traditional building. This restaurant combines historical atmosphere with excellent Greek cuisine, making it a perfect destination for those seeking authentic cultural dining experiences.

Explore restaurants →

Melissa (Experience)

Melissa is a local honey farm experience where visitors can learn about traditional beekeeping and taste pure Kos honey varieties. It's a unique way to connect with the island's agricultural traditions.

Explore events →

Oil Factory Papadimitriou (Experience)

Oil Factory Papadimitriou offers authentic olive oil tasting experiences showcasing the finest extra virgin olive oils produced on Kos Island. Learn about traditional production methods while tasting oils that represent the true flavors of Greek olive cultivation.

Explore events →

Ktima Akrani (Experience)

Ktima Akrani offers wine tasting experiences featuring local Kos wines paired with traditional Greek mezze. Discover the unique terroir of Kos Island while enjoying wines produced from indigenous Greek grape varieties.

Explore events →

Erikas Horsefarm (Experience)

Erikas Horsefarm is a family-friendly horse farm offering riding experiences in the beautiful countryside of Kos. It's a great way to explore the island from a different perspective.

Explore events →

Watersports Flyboard Kos (Experience)

Watersports Flyboard Kos offers exciting watersports and flyboard adventures on Kos Island. Whether you're a beginner or an adrenaline junkie, there's something for everyone.

Explore events →

For more official travel information on Kos, please visit the official Greece tourism page.

View All Restaurants | Best Bars in Kos | Kos Experiences

Ready to dive deeper? Continue on our main guides.

View Restaurants | Bars in Kos | Kos Experiences